This study diverges from a linear exploration of legitimacy and consensus, opting instead to engage deeply with philosophical perspectives on complex political issues and the intricate intersections of philosophy, politics, and society. It begins by examining Kant’s conception of perpetual peace and subsequently shifts within the framework of German continental philosophy to investigate the foundational ideas of the Habermasian project. Emphasizing ethical discourse, Habermasian theory on legitimacy and consensus serves as a springboard into the realm of deliberative democracy. This democratic model, inspired by communication theory and the concept of the public sphere rooted in ancient Greek Agora traditions, forms a central focus of analysis.
Critically engaging with the Habermasian framework, this research confronts significant critiques by challenging the efficacy of consultative democracy and questioning traditional notions of legitimacy and consensus. Instead, it advocates for embracing conflict as a foundational principle in political theory and practice. By navigating these intellectual currents, the study aims to contribute a nuanced understanding of contemporary democratic theory and its philosophical underpinnings, offering insights into the complexities and challenges of achieving political legitimacy and consensus in modern societies.